A common condition in the foot is known as capsulitis. Capsulitis is an inflammatory process in the ligaments under the ball of the foot. These ligaments connect the toes to the metatarsal bones. The ligaments help the joint function properly and form the joint capsule for the metatarsal phalangeal joint. This presents commonly as pain in the ball of the foot with the 2nd digit most commonly affected. Left untreated these ligaments can weaken and eventually cause subluxation of the toe.
Causes:
Symptoms:
- Pain in the ball of the foot
- Swelling
- Pain when pushing off with the foot
- Pain when walking barefoot
- Subluxation of digit
Treatment:
- Ice
- NSAID's
- Orthotics
- Proper shoegear
- Rest
- Ball of foot cushion/pad
- Stretching
- Taping
- Steroid injections
- Surgery